Shakedown Ride - Valley ride down to Tarvisio (Italy) to check out your bike's health and to acclimatise to our new surroundings

Welcome to the start of your epic cycling adventure! Day 2 kicks off with a 52km ride featuring 910m of elevation, setting the tone for the days ahead.

We roll out at a relaxed pace, allowing you to settle into the rhythm of the road and take in the breathtaking alpine scenery. The route gradually builds towards the highlight of the day – the Wurzenpass, a 4.2km climb with an average gradient of 5.8%. But don’t be fooled by the numbers – this climb has a brutal 20.1% max gradient waiting for you near the top!

As you push through the steep switchbacks, the support vehicle is always close, offering hydration and nutrition to keep you fueled. At the summit, take a moment to soak in the incredible mountain views before we enjoy a thrilling descent back into the valley.

The rest of the ride allows for a steady spin, perfect for loosening the legs and preparing for the bigger challenges ahead. Once back, unwind with a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, share stories from the day, and get ready for an unforgettable cycling journey through the Alps and Dolomites.

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 52km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 910m
🔥 Wurzenpass Climb: 4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max gradient

Let the adventure begin! 🚵‍♂️🇦🇹

Day 3 is where the real climbing begins! This is an expert-level ride, covering 100km with 2,270m of elevation and featuring three iconic climbs across Slovenia, Italy, and Austria. Expect stunning scenery, lung-busting ascents, and exhilarating descents as we take on the Vršic Pass, Passo del Predil Predel, and Wurzenpass.

Climb 1: Vršic Pass (Cat 1)

11.7km | 7% avg | 13.2% max

We roll out from Kranjska Gora, and within the first kilometers, you’ll be tackling Slovenia’s most famous climb—the Vršic Pass. With hairpin switchbacks, cobblestone sections, and an elevation of 1,611m, this climb is a true Alpine classic. The 7% average gradient makes for a steady effort, but beware of the 13.2% max gradient—this one will test your legs early! At the summit, take in the panoramic views of the Julian Alps before a fast, twisting descent into Trenta Valley.

Climb 2: Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 2)

14.8km | 5.2% avg | 11.9% max

Crossing into Italy, the next challenge is the long and steady Passo del Predil Predel, climbing to 1,156m. This climb is more forgiving, with an average gradient of 5.2%, making it the perfect chance to settle into a rhythm. The final kilometers ramp up with sections touching 11.9%, keeping you honest before cresting the summit. From here, we descend towards Austria, passing stunning alpine lakes and postcard-perfect scenery.

Climb 3: Wurzenpass (Cat 3)

4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max

To cap off the day, we take on Wurzenpass—short but fierce. After 80+ kilometers in the legs, this 4.2km climb will feel longer than it looks. With a brutal 20.1% max gradient, this final ascent is a true leg-breaker, rewarding those who dig deep. A well-earned descent takes us back towards Kranjska Gora, where we finish the ride with a well-deserved recovery session and post-ride drinks at 5 PM.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 100km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 2,270m
🔥 Vršic Pass (Cat 1): 11.7km | 7% avg | 13.2% max
🔥 Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 2): 14.8km | 5.2% avg | 11.9% max
🔥 Wurzenpass (Cat 3): 4.2km | 5.8% avg | 20.1% max

This is a true mountain challenge, demanding strength, endurance, and a passion for climbing. But with our support vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, you’ll have everything you need to conquer the day.

Time to embrace the challenge and ride like the pros! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Day 4 is a true endurance challenge, featuring 132km of riding and 1,700m of elevation. This expert-level ridetakes us deep into the heart of Slovenia’s Julian Alps, culminating in the Pokljuka climb, a Cat 1 ascent known for its length, steady gradients, and stunning alpine scenery.

Climb: Pokljuka (Cat 1)

19km | 4.4% avg | 13.7% max

The day begins with rolling terrain, allowing us to warm up the legs before taking on the Pokljuka climb—a 19km ascent that is all about pacing and endurance. With an average gradient of 4.4%, this climb is manageable, but don’t be fooled—there are steeper pitches reaching 13.7% that will put your climbing legs to the test.

As we ascend, the road winds through dense alpine forests and remote pastures, offering a sense of isolation and tranquility rarely found on more famous climbs. The higher we climb, the more spectacular the views become, revealing a panoramic vista of the Julian Alps.

A Ride of Endurance & Reward

After summiting, we take on a fast, flowing descent, before looping back towards our base in Kranjska Gora. With long hours in the saddle, today’s ride is all about sustained effort, smart pacing, and enjoying the incredible surroundings.

Upon return, recovery is key—a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, followed by a hearty meal, will prepare you for the even bigger challenges ahead.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 132km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,700m
🔥 Pokljuka (Cat 1): 19km | 4.4% avg | 13.7% max

This ride demands endurance, smart climbing, and a love for long ascents. With full support from our vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, you’ll have everything you need to conquer Pokljuka in style.

Another epic day in the books—rest up, because the mountains keep getting bigger! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Day 5 is a high-altitude adventure, packed with 85km of riding and 1,950m of elevation. This advanced-level ridefeatures a mix of steady climbing and brutal gradients, culminating in the stunning Mangart Saddle, one of the highest paved roads in Slovenia.

Climb 1: Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 3)

12.6km | 3.5% avg | 9.2% max

The day begins with a gentle introduction as we take on Passo del Predil Predel, a 12.6km climb with an average gradient of just 3.5%. While it offers a relatively steady ascent, sections of up to 9.2% keep the legs engaged. This climb is all about finding your rhythm, enjoying the stunning views of alpine lakes, and preparing for the main event of the day.

Climb 2: Mangart Saddle (HC)

10.9km | 9% avg | 18.8% max

Leaving the pass behind, we head toward the crown jewel of the ride—the Mangart Saddle, a Hors Catégorie (HC) climb that will push you to your limits. This 10.9km ascent climbs to 2,055m, making it one of the highest roads in the region. With an average gradient of 9% and sections maxing out at 18.8%, this is a true test of strength and endurance.

The climb winds through jaw-dropping switchbacks, tunnels carved into the rock, and breathtaking alpine landscapes. The final push to the summit is as brutal as it is rewarding—at the top, you’re greeted with unparalleled panoramic views of the Julian Alps, making every pedal stroke worth it.

After conquering Mangart, we enjoy a well-earned descent, letting the crisp mountain air cool us down as we roll back to base. A post-ride drink at 5 PM awaits, where we’ll reflect on an epic day in the mountains and prepare for the challenges still to come.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 85km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,950m
🔥 Passo del Predil Predel (Cat 3): 12.6km | 3.5% avg | 9.2% max
🔥 Mangart Saddle (HC): 10.9km | 9% avg | 18.8% max

This ride is about pacing, grit, and taking in the spectacular landscapes. With full support from our vehicle, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and spare gear, you’ll have everything you need to tackle one of the most breathtaking climbs in Slovenia.

Are you ready for the challenge? 🚵‍♂️⛰

Day 6 is a transition day, as we depart Kranjska Gora and travel to our next base in Lienz/Dölsach, Austria. This gives riders a chance to rest, recover, and prepare for the second half of the tour.

However, for those eager to get in one last ride before we hit the road, we’re offering an optional challenge—a 118km expert-level ride featuring the Iselsberg Pass, a short but punchy climb that will keep the legs fired up before the transfer.

Climb: Iselsberg Pass (Cat 3)

3.7km | 7.2% avg | 10.2% max

While the Iselsberg Pass may only be 3.7km long, don’t underestimate it—it’s a proper leg tester. With an average gradient of 7.2% and a maximum pitch of 10.2%, this climb demands a consistent effort. Sitting at 1,204m, the summit rewards you with breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps before a sweeping descent back down.

For those taking on the ride, our support vehicle will be on hand, stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance to ensure you get the most out of your morning.

After the ride, we regroup, refuel, and begin our journey to Lienz/Dölsach, where our next set of handpicked accommodations awaits. This is the perfect chance to relax, unwind, and soak in the scenic beauty of Austriabefore tackling the next series of legendary climbs.

Ride Summary (Optional Ride):

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 118km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,220m
🔥 Iselsberg Pass (Cat 3): 3.7km | 7.2% avg | 10.2% max

This is an ideal ride for those looking to stay sharp while enjoying one last Alpine climb before the transfer. For those opting to rest, enjoy a leisurely morning, take in the stunning surroundings, and get ready for the incredible roads ahead in Lienz/Dölsach.

Onward to Austria! 🚵‍♂️⛰️

Welcome to one of the biggest and most demanding days of the tour! Today’s 132km ride comes with a massive 3,910m of elevation, taking on three legendary climbs in the Austrian Alps. The Grossglockner Edelweißspitze, Hochtor, and Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe make up a brutal trilogy of Hors Catégorie (HC) and Super HC climbs, ensuring this is a day that will test even the strongest riders.

This is a ride of pure endurance, strength, and mental fortitude—but the rewards are unparalleled, with jaw-dropping views, high-altitude summits, and the chance to ride one of Europe’s greatest cycling routes.

Climb 1: Grossglockner Edelweißspitze (Super HC)

26km | 6.6% avg | 31.1% max

The ride begins with one of the toughest ascents in the entire tour—the Super HC climb to Grossglockner Edelweißspitze. At 26km long and climbing to 2,538m, this is a relentless climb with an average gradient of 6.6%. However, the real challenge lies in its brutal max gradient of 31.1%, which will push your legs to their absolute limit.

The road twists through the breathtaking High Tauern National Park, with alpine meadows, dramatic rock faces, and panoramic vistas all around. As you reach the final stretch, the paved road turns into cobblestones, adding a classic, almost Tour de France-like feel to the climb. At the summit, the views are simply unmatched—this is one of the most awe-inspiring places you’ll ever ride.

Climb 2: Grossglockner Hochtor (HC)

17.6km | 9.2% avg | 12% max

After a short descent, we immediately take on the second monster of the day—Grossglockner Hochtor, another HC climb with 17.6km of unrelenting ascent to a summit of 2,523m. This climb is steeper than the first, with an average gradient of 9.2% and a max of 12%, making it an unforgiving but rewarding challenge.

The road to the Hochtor Tunnel is lined with sweeping alpine switchbacks, and as you near the top, the air grows thinner, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the effort. This is the kind of climb where pacing is everything—push too hard too early, and the final climb of the day will feel impossible.

Climb 3: Grossglockner Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (HC)

17.3km | 7.1% avg | 18.6% max

With two legendary climbs already in the legs, we now take on the final ascent of the day—the HC climb to Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe. This 17.3km climb takes you up to 2,400m, with an average gradient of 7.1%, but with sections ramping up to a punishing 18.6%.

This is where mental toughness will come into play. The climb is long and relentless, but the views of Austria’s highest peak, the mighty Grossglockner (3,798m), are beyond spectacular. This iconic cycling route has been tackled by the world’s best riders, and now, you’re joining the elite group who have conquered it.

At the summit, you’ll be standing above the clouds, with the Pasterze Glacier below and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment as you complete one of the toughest riding days of your life.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 132km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 3,910m
🔥 Grossglockner Edelweißspitze (Super HC): 26km | 6.6% avg | 31.1% max
🔥 Grossglockner Hochtor (HC): 17.6km | 9.2% avg | 12% max
🔥 Grossglockner Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (HC): 17.3km | 7.1% avg | 18.6% max

A Ride for the History Books

This is a true test of endurance and climbing ability—one of the hardest and most rewarding rides of the entire tour. With every meter climbed, you’ll be riding through cycling history, taking on some of the most famous and revered ascents in Europe.

But don’t worry—you’re not in this alone. Our support vehicle will be fully stocked with hydration, nutrition, and mechanical assistance, ensuring you have everything you need to reach each summit.

After the ride, it’s time to relax, recover, and celebrate the day’s achievements with a well-earned drink at 5 PM. You’ve conquered one of the greatest climbing routes in the world—and it’s only going to get better from here!🚵‍♂️⛰️🔥

After the brutal challenges of Grossglockner, today’s ride may be shorter, but it is far from easy. At 73km with 1,340m of elevation, this advanced-level ride is all about quality over quantity. We’ll be heading into the Italian Dolomites to take on one of the most iconic and feared climbs in cycling history—the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

This Cat 1 climb is short but savage, with relentless gradients and a brutally steep final stretch that will put every rider to the test.

Climb: Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Cat 1)

7.5km | 8.7% avg | 20% max

The ride begins with a gradual warm-up, giving the legs a chance to shake off the fatigue from the previous day’s Alpine marathon. We cruise through stunning Dolomite valleys, passing towering limestone peaks, alpine lakes, and charming Italian villages before reaching the base of the main climb.

Then, the real work begins.

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo climb is only 7.5km long, but with an average gradient of 8.7% and a max pitch of 20%, it demands everything you’ve got. The first few kilometers are manageable, but the final 4km are pure suffering, with unrelenting double-digit gradients that only get steeper.

The last kilometer is where leg strength and determination take over—the 20% ramps will have you grinding in your easiest gear, pushing towards the spectacular summit at 2,373m.

But once you reach the top, it’s all worth it—you’ll be greeted by one of the most breathtaking views in the Dolomites. The three jagged peaks of Tre Cime stand proudly above, a rewarding sight for those who endure the climb.

After catching our breath and taking in the views, we descend back down, enjoying sweeping turns and smooth roads as we return to our base in Lienz/Dölsach.

Ride Summary:

🚴‍♂️ Distance: 73km
⛰️ Elevation Gain: 1,340m
🔥 Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Cat 1): 7.5km | 8.7% avg | 20% max

A Ride for the Legends

This historic climb has tested the world’s greatest riders, and now it’s your turn to take it on. With its brutal gradients and breathtaking scenery, Tre Cime di Lavaredo will push you to your limits, but the sense of achievement at the summit is second to none.

Our support vehicle will be on hand to keep you fueled and ready, ensuring you have the hydration, nutrition, and backup support needed to take on this Dolomites classic.

After the ride, we’ll unwind with a well-earned post-ride drink at 5 PM, reflecting on another epic day in the saddle.

Tomorrow, the Dolomite adventure continues! 🚵‍♂️⛰️🔥